A fitted-lid box is one of the most interesting things to make on the lathe. While there are many steps involved that all have to be done correctly (especially when fitting the lid), with some patience even a beginning turner can successfully complete one. Boxes can be just about any shape or size; in honor of this season of growth and renewal, this one is made in the shape of an Easter egg.

This type of fitted-lid box is turned end grain. That is, the grain of the wood runs parallel to the axis of rotation of the lathe, and the interior of the box is cut into the end grain of the piece. With this orientation, the wood is more stable and the lid is less likely to fit badly as the wood moves (some movement will occur even with dry wood) after the box is finished.